Mean maximum temperature varied between 33 deg C and 35 deg C in various districts. The highest maximum temperature of 34.8 deg C was recorded at Kannur and Thiruvananthapuram City on April 30. The maximum temperature was three deg C above normal at Kochi Airport on April 29 and at Thiruvananthapuram City on April 29, May 1 and 2.

Mean relative humidity varied between 66 per cent and 89 per cent, mean cloud coverage between three okta and six okta and mean wind speed, two kmph and eight kmph.

Forecast valid until May 5 spoke about rain/thundershowers at many places in all districts. Outlook for the two subsequent days did not indicate any significant change.

State and stage of crops: Land preparation and sowing in nurseries for the `Virippu' paddy crop is in progress with the receipt of the summer showers. Pulses and vegetables in rice fallows are in the fruit maturity to harvesting stage. Sowing of green manure crops has started in coconut gardens with sufficient moisture. New planting in ginger, turmeric, banana and tapioca continues. Harvesting in mango and jack is in progress.

Advisory for 3 days: Harvesting and drying operations in `Puncha' paddy crop can be continued with, as can be land preparation and sowing in nurseries for the `Virippu' crop. Harvesting and processing can be undertaken in clove, nutmeg, cocoa, cashew and fruit crops. New planting can be continued in almost all crops, what with rains becoming increasingly frequent these days. Sowing of green manure seeds at the rate of 100 gm/tree in basins can be practised in coconut.